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State to eliminate 'tampon tax'
Matthew Hamilton is reporting in the Times Union legislation to eliminate the state tampon tax is now in the hands of Gov. Andrew Cuomo. The governor is expected to sign the measure into law. The state Senate, Wed., May 25, approved the bill that exempts all feminine hygiene products, including tampons, pads and sanitary napkins, from the four percent state sales tax. The law would essentially put an end to any country sales taxes on the products, as well. Certain medical products are already exempted from state sales tax, as are other necessities, such as certain foods and drinks. The bill's backers contend that feminine hygiene products fall into a similar category, calling them "an undeniable necessity." Five states, including Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, have ended similar taxes. Canada also scrapped its tax on feminine hygiene products in 2015. Read the full story in the Times Union.